Point of Care Devices Toolkit

The resources in this toolkit may only be used for internal improvement and education efforts. They may not be used for commercial purposes.

Point of care testing occurs at or near the site of patient care and is accomplished through the use of transportable, portable, and handheld instruments. Point of care testing devices, including blood glucose meters and lancing devices, must be used as directed in order to minimize the risk of transmitting blood-borne pathogens, including hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV.

The ASC Quality Collaboration has assembled a variety of resources and information that may be used to supplement your current processes to improve infection prevention practices surrounding the use of point of care devices.

The BASIC Point of Care Devices Toolkit includes three essential resources:

Assessment Tools

Implementation Aids

Leadership Letter Template
This sample letter from clinical leaders in the ASC may be used to communicate plans for an awareness initiative regarding infection prevention in the use of point of care testing devices. The template should be adapted to fit the unique circumstances of each center.

Summary of Glucometer Cleaning Guidelines (ASCP)
Beginning on page 8, this 2010 document from the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists (ASCP) summarizes manufacturer cleaning guidelines for glucometers. Though prepared for the long term care environment, much of the information is applicable to the ASC setting.

Training Materials

Infection Prevention in Point of Care Testing
This PowerPoint presentation touches on key infection prevention issues in the use of point of care testing and may be revised as desired to support the educational needs of the individual center.

Workplace Reminders

Clean and Disinfect After Every Use Poster
This poster serves as a reminder to clean and disinfect point of care testing devices, such as glucose meters, after each use. It may be modified to meet the needs of the individual center.